We often find so many reasons to be sad and feel bad. Sometimes, the problems and challenges we are currently facing make it difficult to stay happy. Other times, we tend to focus on the negatives. There are also instances when we can’t find contentment even if we are more blessed than others. Continuously comparing yourself to others and wanting their life as your own won’t make you feel better about yourself.
The question is, what does it take for you to be happier? We all have different meanings of happiness. The problem starts with negative thinking.
We are taught from a young age that happiness comes after achieving something. We work hard to attain a goal, and when you are successful in your endeavor, that’s the time to be happy. But if we start by choosing to be happy, we will find it easier to chase our goals because we already feel good.
No matter your definition of happiness, there are other things you can do to bring more happiness into your life. There are evidence-based practices that can help you find more happiness in life. Which of the following do you think will benefit you the most?
Consider a Life-long Partner
Some people have their own reasons for choosing to be single. There is nothing wrong with not wanting to have a partner you can call your own for the rest of your life. But if you are up for the challenge, consider saying yes to a relationship.
According to a study, being in a healthy relationship makes one happier. This is not to say that simply getting married will already make you happy. The key is to find a partner who has the same values and goals as you.
Marriage commands hard work and commitment. But while many people divorce each year, many couples stay happily married because they are willing to make the relationship work. This is one reason why people with healthy marriages are happier.
Don’t you worry if you haven’t found the one yet. There are many things you can explore doing so you can find yourself a life-long partner. When online dating and other strategies no longer work, you can always work with a professional from an executive matchmaking service.
Jot It All Down
When was the last time you found time to write what you think, feel, and want? We often bombard our minds with negative thoughts and our hearts with negative feelings without letting it all out. If you are not comfortable sharing these with your closest friends, consider writing a journal.
Journaling is an easy and safe way to document your experiences, worries, and hopes. You don’t need to share this with anyone if you are not comfortable doing so. You can write down everything that comes to mind and not fear anyone trying to expose your darkest secrets.
Remember that journaling cultivates gratitude. Sure, it allows you to write down all the negatives clouding your mind. But research suggests that journaling has immense health benefits, including reducing your stress levels and improving your mood.
Just make sure you also write good things and not just the negative ones. Practice gratitude when journaling and write one entry each day that shows you in your best. This will make you realize that there are still so many things to be happy about even in your crazy life.
Say Yes to aHakunaMatataOutlook
In Swahili, Hakuna Matata means no troubles, take it easy or no worries. This tells us to let go of what we have no control over and focus on what we can control. It goes to show that how you view happiness depends on what you choose to focus on.
Learning to let go can help you become happier and healthier. This is since you are focusing on the side of the coin you have the power to control. There is no reason to tie yourself to the past when you have today to improve and tomorrow to be happy about.
Choose to be happy, healthy, and forgiving. Don’t let your past bring you down or define your future. Move away from things and situations that make you unhappy and choose happiness over resentment.
Being happy can be a choice. But then, many people choose otherwise. If you want to live a happier life, change your habits and your mindset. With the help of these science-backed strategies, you can start painting a smile on your face and genuinely feel happy about life.
